Tag Archives | beauty

October’s Model of the Month feature is all about Tracy Rivas! Tracy was introduced to SmartGlamour in 2015, and has participated in campaigns, shoots, and shows since. She is a positive ray of light – and we love having her as a part of the SG family. Read more about her below!

1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do? I work as a community events manager at WeWork. I oversee and source events for our 40 buildings in New York City.

2. How did you get involved with the brand? A good friend of mine, Alexa Rose Mullen, asked me to join her to visit a SmartGlamour pop-up shop in the East Village. I was immediately drawn to the clothing and the mission behind SmartGlamour. I was then asked to be a part of Mallorie’s #SameSizeDifferentEyes Campaign, which was an incredibly inspiring campaign and I became more in love with the brand than I already was. I was then fortunate enough to walk one of her Fall Fashion Runway Shows and life officially changed forever. I am forever indebted to Mallorie and will be her advocate and ambassador for LIFE.

3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back? It’s an honor and a privilege to come back and model for Mallorie. Every time, I feel my super woman wings appear and I feel unstoppable. Supporting and representing SmartGlamour means I am helping to allow other women and femmes to feel comfortable and beautiful in their own skin.

4. What does body positivity mean to you? Body positivity means being unaffected by the judgments and criticisms of society where I am limitless in feeling badass, beautiful, confident and comfortable in my own skin. There is a sort of invincibility in the things that you can do when you are in body positive with yourself and with others.

And when we say “all” bodies are good bodies, we mean “all” in the literal sense.

SmartGlamour holds castings open to the public for models in our Spring and Fall campaigns, as well as periodically have open-to-the-public castings for smaller campaigns, usually focused on new designs and fabrics added to SmartGlamour’s line. Recently, SmartGlamour’s founder Mallorie Dunn held a body positive modeling class for SmartGlamour’s models. Here are some tips she shared in that class, for support in your body positive modeling career!

Things to think of before you get in front of the camera:

Who’s the photographer? If you know who you’re shooting with, look up or ask for samples of their work and get a sense of their style.

What makeup and hair will be needed for the shoot? If you’re attending a casting or a shoot and no information has been given, ask. Be as prepared as you possibly can.

What poses will you give the photographer? Have about three to five poses ready as your fallback. If you aren’t sure what poses to use, consider:

How you normally stand can be a pose!

Three variations of a pose that will give different looks in a shot include turning your head in a different direction, putting a hand on your hip instead of hanging down and a look away instead of directly at the camera.

Some faux “movements” you can try are taking a step forward (to simulate walking), a fake “jump” if you’re able. Hands extended can be fun and work to give your pose movement as well.

When in front of the camera:

Think about where the light will hit you. If you are looking to highlight a part of your body (such as your face), you want to be sure that the light is facing in that direction.

Whether the frame is a headshot photo, upper torso, full length, etc. keep in mind the positioning of the parts of your body that will be in the photo, particularly if you are looking to highlight an item of clothing or accessory in the shot. If you are not sure what frame the photographer is shooting, ask them.

Think about what details need to be shown of what you’re modeling. For example, if you are modeling a top with a detailed back design, you will want to include some shots of the detail in the back. If you are not sure what should be shown, be proactive and ask the photographer and/or the person or company for whom you’re working.

Many people hold stress in their face and this can come through in a shot. Remember to breathe between each shot, and with each exhalation let your face settle into whatever look you’re trying to give. Also remember that, while you are working, you’re having fun! Let your joy you feel modeling shine in your face (even if you aren’t smiling).

It’s a good idea to ask the photographer about the shots, especially if you aren’t getting feedback. This will help you picture what you’re giving the camera as you pose.

Tips for the runway:

Whether you’re modeling for SmartGlamour or another company, please keep in mind:

The points where you need to pause to show off the clothing. The runway director will give you direction.

The direction of the light. Think of it as a moving photo! The light will be on you. Keep your head up!

The placement of the photographer at the end of the runway, who will be looking to get two to three shots of you. Have a few poses ready to go for that point of your walk.

When you’re walking away from the photographer and back to start, you’re still on the runway. Work it at every point on the runway!

Other body positive modeling tips:

Your body is your body and not some other body. Remember you are using your form to show off the clothing. Do not try to contort yourself into some other body shape, size or profile.

It’s OK to say no if you aren’t comfortable with something the photographer or company you’re modeling for wants you to do.

Ask all the questions you need to ask to get comfortable and knowledgeable about what they’re expecting of you.

Advocate for yourself. If you need something to make the job work for you, kindly ask for it!

Our next Model of the Month has been working with us for multiple years now – Ana York!

She’s been in runway shows, look books, and mini shoots alike. Learn more about her below.

1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do?

I work in Human Resources in hospitality!

2. How did you get involved with the brand?

I got involved with SmartGlamour at first modeling jewelry and then I modeled for the Spring 2015 collection!

3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back?

There are multiple things that makes me come back! The clothes are of course a given. Each article of clothing is catered to you and your body measurements which I think is so valuable and unique. I’m tall and plus size so to have a custom garment is truly one of a kind and wonderful. I come back for the positive and safe space Mallorie and my fellow models have created. Everyone is accepting of one another, cheers each other on, and being in such an environment is hard to find nowadays. The positive environment created speaks to the brand, SmartGlamour itself and that is an ultimate reason for coming back. I am honored to represent a brand that carries a truly inclusive and consistent message.

4. What does body positivity mean to you?

To me body positivity means not only an acceptance but a pride and celebration of your body. No matter your size, it’s the positive affirmation that you are beautiful and worthy of love and happiness.

5. If there is a message you could put across to other people through your modeling photos – what would that be?

I always try to emphasize that my body acceptance journey is still underway. I want people to see that yes, I am confident, but I also have insecurities and things I try to work on. I think that kind vulnerability is important to see and hopefully inspires women that it’s okay to not always feel like you have it together. However, I make a point to show and applaud myself on how far I have come. From someone who was in an abusive relationship with no self esteem to modeling in lingerie, the last few years, I have grown exponentially!

6. What is your advice to other people who would like to give modeling a try?

I think the most important advice to realize it takes so much time, research, money, and effort to be a model. You have to learn your body and angles. You have to network and really be okay with putting yourself out there. It’s tough and there’s a lot of competition so it’s also important to not let rejection get to you. But it’s been such a valuable and rewarding experience for me that I would gladly encourage someone to give it a try.

One day I received an email from a cane user who told me she was in tears (happily) after seeing a model glamorously posing amidst the other models on my site, while using her cane. I won’t go into too many details, for the privacy of both her and my model – but suffice it to say, she had never seen that before, and this is why just one example of why representation is so important.

There is so much “othering” happening in our society today – and a group that absolutely feels the brunt of it are disabled folks. We (generally, as a society) infantalize them, assume they can do less than they can, stating they are automatically “inspiring” by just living, and that they constantly need our help through every little thing. (Please watch our Round Table Discussion videos with a few disabled women and femmes to listen to them directly on these issues.) We refuse to see them as whole, beautiful people, full of talent, intelligence, worth, or even sex appeal. The only way to chip away at this – is by changing how they are seen. And the biggest way to do that – is through media representation.

As I’ve stated previously with our last #AllMeansAll installments (Gender, Size, Skin Color) – SmartGlamour has been including all folks since day one – but did not want to tokenism them or exploit their differences for our gain. Every model is equal to the next in SmartGlamour spaces. However, there is a need to take a stand, highlight these folks, and amplify their voices. Yesterday, we produced the following shoot with only disabled models – and guess what? It was exactly like every other SG shoot.

All folks wear clothes. All folks deserve to have access to ethical, affordable, comfortable, fun clothing. Fashion is fun – and should be for all people. And when we say all, we mean all.

SmartGlamour is a brand that was created to solve fashion fit problems (while simultaneously helping to heal relationships with our bodies) – through a full size range and tons of customizations, our main goal is to make fashion accessible to everyone! Throughout our design process, we do tons of research, and really pay attention to what shoppers are looking for – wishing they could find in the perfect size, fit, price point etc – and we’ve been listening! Scroll below to find out which of your shopping wishes have been granted.

The perfect Wrap Dress

Look no further than the Meredith Wrap Dress! It’s a true wrap – so you can loosen, tighten, adjust as you need. Our model in purple wore hers throughout her pregnancy, and now afterwards! Customize the sleeve length, hem length, bust to waist or waist to hip ratios – you name it.

The Classic Tee

We always hear folks asking for a soft, comfortable, easy to wear t-shirt that isn’t see through, won’t fall apart, and fits well. Look no further than our Ashton Cropped Tee! It does come as a cropped length standard – but with a simple $5 add on – you can have any length you’d like. Standard Tee length? Tunic length? The choice is yours! Petite and tops are always too long? Not an issue here. Customize the sleeve, the fit – grab yourself the perfect tee – in tons of color options! And check out it’s sister – the Virgie Scoop Neck Tee.

Bodysuits

Bodysuits are the perfect layering piece! Tuck one under a skirt or into pants and it’s a stylish, chic, and clean look. They’re super comfortable when made properly with quality fabric. So we created three with varying necklines! Meet the Zelda (with a high neck and keyhole tie back), Noelle (with a our classic sweetheart neckline), and Cecilia (with a front keyhole). Add sleeves to the Noelle or Cecilia. Customize the rise, bust to waist to hip ratios – you name it! And also check out their newest sister, the Ada.

Button Up Shirt that actually Fits

One of the most common asks we heard was for a classic button down shirt that would properly accommodate for any chest size. It took us awhile to figure out how to make one that was accessibly priced (they take a lot of work, friends!) – but we did it! Meet the Rosalind Button Down Shirt. Customizable both in bust to waist ratio, but also in bust circumference – so for our larger chested shoppers, you can give us your back chest measurement, and your front chest measurement, and we’ll ensure you have the room you need!

Perfectly Fitted Pants

Finding a pair of pants that fits properly is like finding a unicorn! We just have so many measurements that go into a pent – from rise to inseam to waist:hip ratio! But all of those aspects can be customized to perfection with our Jackie Skinny Pants + Nicole Wide Leg Pants. Need a more casual pant? Try the Marlene. Fun and comfy? Try the Malala. Evening wear? The Daniela.

Maxi Dresses for all heights

It’s pretty obvious that people come in all different shapes and sizes – but also heights. It can be tough to find full length items that hit at the desired length. Enter the Keriann Maxi, Venus Maxi, Substantia Maxi – and even the Arianna Convertible Dress, customized to a maxi length. For just $5 – you choose! Get the perfect length, every time.

Bralettes for all cup sizes

Bras and bralettes – chests and breasts – we have complicated relationships with them. We made a whole video about it. But what we do know for certain – is that every human being who would like to own a bralette, should be able to find one that fits. It can be difficult for plus size babes with small chests – as well as any size babe with a large chest – to find a bralette in their size. Enter our Starr Cupped Bralette – available in band sizes 28-60 and cups A-I. Also, of course, customizable past those sizes for anyone who needs. You can also customize our Rose Lee + Hensley Bralettes!

Almost as tough as pants – shorts can also be difficult to find that fit properly. If the waist to hip fit isn’t correct, they’ll ride up or fall down all day! Customizing the inseam length and thigh circumference can also help with comfort and avoiding thigh chafing. Our Gloria High Waist Shorts can be customized in a multitude of ways to achieve perfect fit and comfort. Need assistance? Just drop us a line!

A comfortable, stretch Blazer

Comfortable, stylish workwear can always be difficult to find – but one of the easiest ways to pull together an outfit and dress it up is with a blazer. Our Adeline Single Button Plazer is just as comfortable as it is professional. Customize the bust two different ways to ensure the perfect fit. Adjust the sleeve or bodice hem length as needed. Take a look at our Marion Cardigan as well – for a fun twist on a blazer option.

A lace Camisole with Adjustable Straps

Every now and then – we need a bit more coverage on our cleavage under a top. Our Ayla Lace Camisole is perfect for that! But the perfect fit for your camisole is important as well – it’ll stay put, the straps will stay on your shoulders, and it will be long enough. With a customizable length, customizable fit, and adjustable straps – the Ayla has you covered.

June’s Model of the Month is here – and it’s Carine! This babe has worked with us through campaigns, runway shows, and capsule collections. Learn more about her below!

1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do?

I’m a mommy! I have two amazing sons, Micah and Zion, they keep me on my toes! I volunteer in my community. I’m a classically trained private chef. Right now I’m laser focused on having my curve modeling career take off!

2. How did you get involved with the brand?

My friend, Tatiana, told me about a SmartGlamour casting and I went for it!

3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back?

I just love everything this brand stands for. Everyone can have a seat at the fashion table with SmartGlamour.

4. What does body positivity mean to you?

Body positivity is loving the skin you are in despite what society may think is “beautiful” or “acceptable.” It’s loving and appreciating your body and others freely and knowing your self worth. Body positivity is safe and judgement free.

5. If there is a message you could put across to other people through your modeling photos – what would that be?

I’m not your standard model, but that doesn’t mean I’m not as equally stunning as a “straight size” model. Beauty comes in all shapes, body types, skin tones and hair textures. I want to always represent that!

6. What is your advice to other people who would like to give modeling a try?

They need to know that it’s a constant grind/hustle. You need thick skin because this is a tough industry but don’t let that stop you! Take beautiful pictures, LOTS of them and build your portfolio.

We are a bit delayed with our May Model of the Month Feature – but only due to our own business schedule, because this babe is a gem. Alex has been modeling with SmartGlamour for a little over just one year, which seems ridiculous as she is such a strong pillar in the SmartGlamour modeling family! Learn a bit more about her below.

1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do?

• I’m an actor, model and theater producer. If you’re asking how I pay for food, rent, etc., then I’m a hotel Sales Manager. I’ve been in the hotel industry for the last 10 years all while hustling to make my dreams come true.

2. How did you get involved with the brand?

• Fellow model friend, Temiah, shared a casting post on Facebook and I truly thought it was a scam. Who actually casts ALL types of humans? Spoiler alert: SmartGlamour does.

3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back?

• Aside from wanting to put on the beautiful clothes, I come back because of the positive messages SmartGlamour puts out into the world. I’ve never felt so empowered before SmartGlamour came into my life. Also, being surrounded by likeminded babes makes me feel we can all make a lasting, positive difference in fashion and the world.

4. What does body positivity mean to you?

• For me, body positivity means loving your body. It means ALL bodies are GOOD bodies. There is no wrong way to have a body. Period.

5. If there is a message you could put across to other people through your modeling photos – what would that be?

• My message would be that we, humans of color, people who don’t fit into the boxes of westernized beauty, exist. People of color have been under represented too long in print and media. We are here and will continue to fight for accurate representation as well as lift up our fellow humans who are marginalized.

6. What is your advice to other people who would like to give modeling a try?

• Do it. The only person holding you back from any opportunity is yourself.

This is definitely a time of year when “body goals” are a big deal. Here at SmartGlamour, we say the goal is to love yourself as you are! Here’s some body positive goals and insights from some of the models featured below, meant to help you have the best summer ever!

It’s all about how I see myself, how I feel about myself and best of all HOW MY BODY FEELS! Because I love myself, my smile comes from the deep within. I hope it radiates through an entire room because it’s pure and I want the world to feel my joy!!! – Detras

I constantly challenge the crap we’re fed [by society and the media] that says “you’re not good enough, unless…or until…etc” I learned to realize that my body is already perfect, and that the “perfect” body does not exist or looks different for everyone. – Rachael

I always struggled with my body and height growing up. I would wear a tee shirt to the beach and pool! In high school and most of college, I was in a long term abusive relationship which completely shattered my self-esteem. After escaping that experience, I fell into modeling which helped me see that no one can truly make you feel inferior unless you let them. – Ana

I remind myself daily that I am so much more than my body. On days when I don’t feel that great about my body, I remind myself of all of the amazing ways my body serves me everyday!– Rachael

My winter body is my summer body! Don’t care about what people might say about you in your swimsuit, because for every hater, there’s ten others you inspired. – Alessandra

I used to hold myself to a few strict rules: no crop tops, and no two-piece bathing suits which showed off my midsection. Once SmartGlamour came into my life, I continued with my “no crop top” rule and customized all my tops to an approximate hip length. That summer, however, Mallorie (Meredith’s sister, and SmartGlamour’s founder/designer) encouraged me to try a high-waisted bikini. When I first wore it to my local pool, no one was more surprised than me when the world kept spinning, and no one even glanced my way more than once! Since then, every summer I proudly rock my bikinis and crop tops because I think I look super cute in them. And everyone deserves to be cute and comfortable. – Meredith

When I finally looked in a mirror one day and fell in love with the image that looked back at me, that’s when I knew my body I great just the way it was. I love who I am and every curve I have are the best parts of me. I’m uniquely shaped and my goodness, I couldn’t have asked for a better body. – Detras

I have gotten to my current [body positive] mindset by just realizing that life itself is too precious to waste time hating myself…. When I have an automated negative thought about myself I think, “What would I say to a friend? Would I actually be that cruel to someone else?” And no, I definitely wouldn’t. – Moet

Have a wonderful summer and remember that SmartGlamour has your back in all things body positive and ethical, fun fashion!

At SmartGlamour, when we say #FashionForAll, we truly mean all. Throughout 2017 we are highlighting the various marginalized groups that are often left out when brands + media say all or everone. In our first #AllMeansAll campaign, we highlighted how clothing should be inclusive of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals – that clothing items on their own do not actually have a gender, society chose to dictate that. Now as our year long campaign continues, we are highlighting the most under served plus-size population, those in sizes 24 and up.

Because #AllMeansAll continues to mean just that; whether that all is demonstrated by gender identity, age, ethnicity, ability, size, or a crossection of all those characteristics. It does not mean a sea of options for our straight-sized customers and then limited stock for our plus size range. Every one of our pieces can be made in XXS-6X and beyond. Many collections don’t serve these women + femmes. And if they do, often they are in dark colors, touting “slimming” effects. We want these babes to live out loud in bright florals and prints – or whatever THEY choose!

SmartGlamour believes everyone can be bold. Fierce. Bright. Everyone deserves access to the fashion that expresses them the best. Our mission has, and always will be, to provide style at any size for all women and femmes. #AllMeansAll is just one more way to give everyone visibility. This campaign features some classic SmartGlamour styles like the Valentina, Jaime, and Keriann – brought back in new colors and prints – and then the addition of three brand new styles – the Lindy, Substantia, and Virgie (named after a few Fat Acceptance warriors we look up to) – all available now at www.smartglamour.com.

This month’s model feature is all about Tatiana Lewis. Tatiana is relatively new to the SmartGlamour family, joining in last Fall for our Fall 2016 Runway + Look Book. She also modeled in our Valentine’s Day look book. Learn more about her below!

1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do?

I have a background in Meeting and Event management. I have planned and coordinated numerous events and love the logistical aspect the most.

2. How did you get involved with the brand?

The brand had a big presence on social media and gained my attention with the tag words #FashionforAll. There wasn’t always fashion for all, especially when I was in High school, curvy girls were not the norm. Curvy girls like myself were shopping in the Women’s section and wearing unflattering clothes that were not particularly trendy. SmartGlamour has given many options to all women and I thank you.

3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back?

SmartGlamour’s mission to be inclusive and I support a women entrepreneur 100%. I support Mallorie Dunn and her ability to continue to run a company on her own. The amount of support and love Mallorie has within the fashion community is amazing. Surrounding myself with like-minded and passionate individuals like many of the models keeps me coming back.

4. What does body positivity mean to you?

Body Positivity means self love and respect for all bodies. Its a journey for a lot of people to self love and to be less critical about their bodies and others. Once you find that confidence within you are unstoppable.

5. If there is a message you could put across to other people through your modeling photos – what would that be?

My message would be to enjoy life! I may be having a horrible day at times or going through something personally but I always remember to smile. That one smile in your photo could change someones day or transcend a warmth into their soul. A smile is contagious!

6. What is your advice to other people who would like to give modeling a try?

If modeling is your passion, do it! I moved from one city to another to follow my passion and pursuits within the industry. If your heart is not 100% into the hustle and drive it takes, I would find another avenue in the modeling industry or fashion world. One last thing! You will get many no’s and many yes’s but always remember to create your own opportunities! Love you mean it!